Why fitness brands like Peloton, Planet Fitness are investing in strength training

Strength training is the hot new trend

By Brittney Bertagna, RN Published September 1, 2024

Man with shirt off in gym lifting one dumbbell — Ronin / Pexels

Are you ready to power up your fitness routine with strength training? You’re not alone. Major fitness players like Peloton and Planet Fitness are going full steam ahead on resistance equipment as more people gravitate towards muscle-building fitness programs.

Gym enthusiasts’ changing preferences

Man laying on workout bench chest pressing dumbbells — Marcus Chan / Pexels

In 2023, Gen Z, comprising 25% of Planet Fitness’s consumer base, showed a clear preference for strength over cardio equipment. With the rise of fitness influencers on Instagram and other social media platforms, who sometimes have millions of followers and showcase their workouts and muscle-building secrets, it’s not surprising that Gen Z has taken an interest in strength training routines.

Recommended Videos

This shift in changing preferences was highlighted during a third-quarter Planet Fitness conference call in 2023, where it was revealed that many paid members were actively seeking more strength-focused workout options.

Harlo includes electrolytes, collagen, and creatine to promote better mental clarity, better muscle and body recovery post-workout, and better hydration. Available in four delicious flavors, including Pineapple Salt, Watermelon Salt, and Raspberry Salt it's exactly what you need to extract peak performance out of your body. Plus, it has zero sugar so you'll never have that midday slump or crash. Try free now for 14 days.

Planet Fitness responded to this trend by adapting its fitness supply to cater to the growing interest in strength workouts, especially among Gen Z patrons.

Aligning its offerings with the evolving preferences of gym enthusiasts, the company successfully met the demand for more strength equipment and diversified workout classes.

This strategic response to changing consumer preferences not only enhanced the overall fitness experience for members but also played a vital role in driving the company’s revenue performance in the second quarter.

How the fitness industry is responding

In response to the shifting preferences of gym enthusiasts towards strength workouts, especially among Gen Z consumers, the fitness industry has adapted its offerings to meet the evolving demands of its clientele. And it’s using data to back up its business decisions.

Companies have recognized the growing interest in strength training among their members and have adjusted their equipment and workout programs accordingly.

Taking advantage of this evolving trend, fitness brands are offering strength-oriented programs like Peloton Strength, where users of varying strength levels can improve their endurance and build the muscle mass they are looking for.

Benefits of strength training

Two men working out in gym — Abdulrhman Alkady / Pexels

Distinct from other forms of physical activity like cardio or group fitness classes, weight training offers a unique set of advantages:

- Increased muscle mass
- Improved body density
- Elevated metabolism
- Improved functional strength

With the rise of mobile workout apps like The Peloton App and Planet Fitness’ PF+, users can build strength at the gym or in the comfort of their own homes.

These apps offer custom, instructor-led programming designed specifically for strength workouts, catering to users looking to improve their overall functional strength and build lean muscle.

So, whether you’re a seasoned fitness enthusiast or just starting on your journey to better health, incorporating strength training can boost your metabolism, offer protection against injury, and may be exactly what you need to meet your next fitness goal.

Topics

Brittney Bertagna, RN

Brittney is a graduate of California State University, Chico, where she completed a Bachelor's degree in Business. Her…

Health & Fitness

Here’s why fitness buffs are swapping gyms for TRX suspension trainers

Use gravity and your own bodyweight to optimize your muscle power.

TRX handles

Sometimes, even the most devoted gym lovers end up straying from the gym and trying other ways of getting ripped and optimizing their athletic performance. One of the ways that’s garnering more and more attention in the fitness world is the TRX suspension trainer. While the gym has plenty of interesting machines and equipment to work with, other different and effective fitness tools continue to hit the market. Many of these tools can be used at home or even outdoors, and some are so worthwhile and convenient that people are ditching their local gym. Let’s look at the TRX suspension trainer, how it works, and the benefits.
What is the TRX suspension trainer?

The TRX system, otherwise known as Total Resistance Exercises, is a specialized fitness tool and a form of suspension training. Former U.S. Navy SEAL Randy Hetrick originally designed the TRX equipment based on his own experience and research from the military, pro sports, and academic institutions. When you use the TRX Suspension Trainer, you’re leveraging your body weight and gravity to complete a range of exercises. You can choose from signature products, including heavy-duty straps, foot cradles, padding, and handles.
What is suspension training?

Health & Fitness

Should you take fish oil when training? What are the benefits? New study is in

How does this popular omega-3 supplement affect muscle mass and strength?

fish oil supplement in shape of fish on white background

Evidence is mounting on the benefits of taking fish oil supplements, from lowering blood pressure to protecting your heart and reducing your risk of cardiovascular events. Fish oil has been shown to lower inflammation, improve cholesterol and muscle-skeletal recovery, and more. Protein powders, creatine, and other supplements are common in the fitness world, but you don’t often hear gym buffs talking about fish oil. Recently, researchers set out to discover if taking fish oil supplements helps fuel muscle growth and strength. Let’s look at the research.
What is fish oil?

Fish oil is a dietary supplement containing omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids that are extracted from oily fish like anchovies, tuna, herring, and mackerel. The supplement contains two essential omega-3s: docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, and eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA. Especially if you don’t eat a lot of fish, taking a fish oil supplement could help you obtain sufficient omega-3 fatty acids. Fish oil supplements typically come in capsule or liquid dropper form.

Health & Fitness

I tested the OOFOS OOmy Stride: A versatile shoe that supports recovery, comfort

The OOFOS ooMY Stride is a versatile recovery shoe

Recovery is central to being an athlete. During that time, muscles rest and rejuvenate, growing stronger before the next workout. Time off also provides a nice mental break for renewed focus the next time out.

Active recovery takes that further by introducing light movements post-workout, increasing blood flow, and speeding up rejuvenation. Low-intensity activities like walking, swimming, or shooting hoops gently guide muscles back into action. They’re also a fun departure from intense runs or HIIT classes.